Since your attorney will impact the way you conduct your business in many ways, you should do a little homework before bringing him or her onboard.

Start by asking colleagues in the industry who they use and how they like their lawyers. In a small community like Kitsap, reputation travels fast, and other business owners or professionals are likely to share their experience. Ask other people you know including friends or professionals you work with such as your accountant for recommendations.

Start with several names; check out their Website or phone book to see if their presentation appeals to you. Call the firms to request a brochure, newsletter, or any other informational materials they may offer. You can also ask them for a list of clients, and figure out if they have worked with companies similar to yours.

Check with the Washington State Bar Association to see if your final candidates are in good standing and don’t have any disciplinary records. You can also get information on some lawyers from the Martindale-Hubbell legal network (www.martindale.com). Some attorneys listed in the database also have peer review ratings based on their legal abilities, general ethics standards and professional excellence.

Interview several attorneys and take advantage of the free legal consultations some offer. This is your chance to find out how you like the person, how well you can communicate, how professionally you are treated by office staff, and what kind of follow-up you receive.